A radically different web mapping solution which simplifies and improves data management and security, whilst allowing users to self-serve data, has been launched by Dotted Eyes. RMX4 was developed in response to a challenge from Dotted Eyes’ existing customers. Ben Allan, MD of Dotted Eyes, explains, “Too often, the richness of the front-end is the sole focus of web mapping development, but our RMX web mapping customers demanded more. They wanted refinements to the user interface to be coupled with a structured and secure data storage facility, and the ability to share different combinations of datasets with disparate groups of stakeholders.
We were faced with a seemingly contradictory requirement: How do you make data more secure whilst also making it more accessible?”
The solution lay in open source.
Dotted Eyes’ engineers, inspired by the results already achieved from using open source in large-scale bespoke development projects, rebuilt the entire RMX platform around carefully selected open source components.
A central spatial database which stores all the datasets in a controlled environment was incorporated to improve data management, and sophisticated access control technology seamlessly defines which of the stored datasets are displayed to each user group.
The interface was also revamped to include a widescreen map pane for the ultimate user experience. All the functionality expected by users, such as pan, zoom, annotate and print to PDF, is present, and regular product updates, driven by the customer-led development roadmap, will provide additional features. Alternatively, bespoke modules can be developed to meet a specific customer’s needs.
Ben explains, “RMX4 is completely flexible as new modules can be developed by Dotted Eyes or by other developers to meet an organisation’s particular needs. We’re so impressed with the platform that we’ve used it as the underlying technology behind our new specialised web mapping application for councils – Local Government Portal – which enables councils to reduce the cost of supporting customer enquiries, and which has already been adopted by Herefordshire Council.”
For more information, visit www.dottedeyes.com/rmx4
